‘It’s an honour and a privilege,’ the Turkish mentor told SoccerLaduma.

‘I feel very good. I mean, we are talking about one of the biggest clubs in Africa, never mind South Africa. When you get offered a job like this, you don’t think twice!

‘Basically, when Aces was sold and the whole move story came about, that’s when things became … how can I say … unsettled. You know, I was very happy at Aces. We were growing something; I think everyone could see that. These young players were improving all the time and it was wonderful to see.’

The coach admitted he had been courted by Pirates over an extended period of time.

‘It’s been a long time. Zodwa, the President’s[(Irvin Khoza’s] late daughter, always used to say to me that one day she was going to get me to coach Pirates.

She would come for dinner with me and my wife and she would say to me, “You are an Orlando Pirates coach! One day I am going to make you a Pirates coach! You are a Buccaneer!” Now I believe that Zodwa’s wish has come true.’